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Parents

Immunisations are a very important part of maintaining health, not just for your children but also for the entire population.

Some vaccines are only effective for a short period of time, such as the Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine (LAIV), and it is therefore crucial children are immunised in good time. Our aim at Kernow Health is to see a significant increase in the number of children protected against some of the more serious diseases.

Why vaccinate

Cases of Meningitis and Septicaemia (blood poisoning) caused by the Meningococcal W (MenW) bacteria are rising, due to a particularly lethal strain. MenW infections are particularly severe and usually need to be treated in hospital in intensive care. They have a higher death rate than the more common Men C and Men B strains. It is very important that children and young people are vaccinated.

Vaccination Programme.

We will be continuing the programme across all Senior Schools in Cornwall by vaccinating Year 9 boys and girls against MengACWY between January and June 2017. More information will be sent out nearer the time.

The Meningitis ACWY vaccination supercedes the
Meningitis C vaccination programme which stopped in October 2014. This was due
to a rise in the incidence of Meningitis W strain in the age groups of 13 to
19.

How is it given?

The MenACWY is given as an injection into either arm. From your child meeting the nurse and having the injection should take no more than 5 minutes. They may experience a slightly sore arm after the injection, which is very common, but this should wear off after a couple of days.

Giving Consent

Every year thousands of young people are vaccinated and you or your child (in some circumstances) will need to give consent to receive the vaccinations. When our nurses go into the school they will discuss any concerns your child may have, or you could call confidentially on 01872 221105, 01872 221106 or 01872 221107.